This 'haint no wimpy cheery-soda drink! Dark ruby with no hint of a rim. Nose of black fruits, spices(clove?), and a hint of vanilla. In the mouth the immediate impression is density...... cassis, blackberries, spice (the clove is joined by cinnamon) and a choco-vanilla marriage. Solid center and this hummer has a 4&3/4ths lapper finish. (Could have actually been a 5-lapper but my old leather-tongue hasn't recovered from putting the state of Tequila on 3 shifts). Beautifully balanced and with the underpinnings to improve for another 5-8. Kick-Patootie Cab. 94/92. 44 by the box. 13.5% alc. WW

My "coming off sabbatical" bottle. Nose has really expanded and makes this dude really sing. The spices are joined by a boquet of flowers aand a saddle leather note. Still comes outta the glass swinging and still has a few lingering tannins. A real treat! No change in scoring tho. WW